First: Cheap!
Second: it was absolutely impossible to find a small clip on fan. None of the hardware, drug, and Walget or Tar-mart had appropriate fans left. Want a good deal on a 24" box fan - go now, 6" fans don't exist.
Third: Fast, easy, and no really exotic tools required. Each version - UNDER 20 minutes. The 'Classic' requires a hole saw, saber saw, or other way to make a 4" hole. The Modern version can be done with a steak knife.
Fourth: Corner store stuff. Everyone has a Radio Shack and hardware store close. Yes you can find PC fans cheaper - go for it, but for those that don't want to wade through teh internets looking for a deal this is easiest.
Fifth: Cheap!
Things to do differently: use a lamp cord with a built in switch or buy a timer; a timer like the ones that they'll be giving away towards the end of December. A self contained fan would be even faster.
If you have a better version, lets SEE it.
Radio Shack parts:
Fan: Model 273-241 | Catalog #: 273-241 $24.99
this fan is ultra quiet and will move 65 cubic feet a minute- about the size of your head 65 times a minute!
Fan Grill: Model: A2399 | Catalog #: 28-1119 $3.99
will keep your chin strap and fingers out of the blades
Screw-On Wire Connectors: Model: 64-3068 | Catalog #: 64-3068 $1.99
if you don't have butt connectors, or soldering ability
Extension Cord: Model: 61-2759 | Catalog #: 61-2759 $6.99
chop off the end or buy a switched lamp cord
For the 'Classic,' version:
Pre-cut twelve inch MDF, plywood, or melamine circle. $3.99
Four solid door stops. $2.49/pack of two
Four 2" long drywall screws.
Four small wood screws. Shorter than the thickness of the wood, yet with a large enough head to secure the fan grill in place.
One Cable Clip: Model: 278-1640 | Catalog #: 278-1640 $3.99
I know you'll use the other nine included on your computer desk rat nest
For the 'Modern' version:
6 or 8 inch Circular valve box $3.99
Four #8 or #10 machine screws 1" or longer



The Classic

The Modern
Last edited by ritchj on Thu, 14 Sep 2006 00:22:50 +0000; edited 1 time